If you think New York is the only city that never sleeps, you’ve never set foot in Groningen. With one in four residents being a student, the city is designed for young, ambitious, and open-minded people who study hard but play even harder. It’s no coincidence that it’s ranked the happiest city in the Netherlands and third in all of Europe! Around here, sleep is just optional.
Share your talent, move the world
Hanze – where you can share your talent and move the world. The university is known for its hands-on education, where all the theory you study needs to be put into practice. Being seen as a young professional, gaining real-world experience, working with industry leaders, and studying in a multinational environment will be part of your daily routine, regardless of the programme you choose. Our university, alongside RUG, won Best Campus of the Year – probably because during exam season, students are basically part of the infrastructure!
What do you need to survive the city?
Bike and a raincoat. Groningen is the cycling capital of the Netherlands – there are probably more bikes than people! The good news is that there are no traffic jams… at least not on the roads. Our lovely city is designed for bikes, making it possible to get everywhere within 10 to 15 minutes. And for the parents reading – it’s also very safe (don’t worry). Dutch people like to say that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing, so buy a nice raincoat!
How expensive is it?
I might’ve compared Groningen with New York but the cost of living is as far away as the cities themselves. Groningen is cheaper than Amsterdam or Rotterdam but still has to offer everything that a student needs. Personally, I spend around 350 euro a month for groceries and so do my friends. It's enough to have a balanced diet including cooking and going out.
Make friends all around the world
With thousands of international students, there’s no doubt you’ll make friends from all parts of the world. But the best part truly is the summer holidays – when you get to visit their home countries and they come to yours. Plus, being surrounded by such a multicultural environment helps you become more self-aware and deepens your appreciation of different cultures.
Party like a local
Since bars don’t have an official closing time, whether you’re up for a relaxed drink in a cosy café, an all-night dance session, karaoke, or a deep conversation, the city’s nightlife will make you feel gezellig. But if you're in Groningen, King's Day is an absolute must! Hopefully, you have something orange in your wardrobe – you’ll need it. This celebration is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced, and I can guarantee that!
Reconnect with nature
If partying isn’t your thing, or you simply need a break, spending a sunny day at Noorderplantsoen Park is always a great idea. For passionate cyclists, venturing outside the city is a rewarding challenge. You’ll be mesmerised by the lovely green fields, windmills, and lakes – making it the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. Another popular option is a boat tour, which is still on my ‘to-do list for 2025’.
Culture, art and sports
Might sound bold, but we have it all. Every year, you can experience ESNS – the largest European music festival – and maybe even discover your new favourite artist. If you’re into the arts, cultural organisations like USVA provide plenty of opportunities to perform. And for sports enthusiasts, ACLO, the biggest student sports association, offers a yearly membership for just €60. Yes, you read that right – per year!
What the parents want to hear: It is safe!
Groningen is one of the safest cities in the Netherlands, with a low crime rate. I’ve personally never felt unsafe, even when going home alone after a night out. There are plenty of police officers around, and you’re likely to see them on your way home – I can assure you of that. Also, Hanze offers all students health support, career counselling, and mentorship programmes. So, if you ever need help, just ask.
Is Groningen right for you?
You should discover that for yourself. If you have the opportunity, sign up for an Open Day – come, visit, and feel our lovely campus and vibrant city. You can also book a free campus tour at any time, and meet a student ambassador, like me, who will share their own personal experience. In case you can’t come, join the Online Open Day and chat with student ambassadors. There are plenty of options to help you make up your mind.
Let's meet!
Come, visit, and feel our lovely campus and vibrant city. You can also sign up for our online events.
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